I want to go back to an earlier discussion we had about the media statement released on 15 May, which states, ‘Commission to lead historic anti-racism study into universities.’ I apologise; originally in my questioning I said, ‘You didn’t mention the word “antisemitism” in the media statement.’ I was then referred to the fact that the media statement does mention ‘antisemitism’ now. However, I’ve gone back on my records. I took a screenshot of what was released on 15 May. There was no reference to antisemitism in that original media release.
Senator HENDERSON: I want to go back to an earlier discussion we had about the media statement released on 15 May, which states, ‘Commission to lead historic anti-racism study into universities.’ I apologise; originally in my questioning I said, ‘You didn’t mention the word “antisemitism” in the media statement.’ I was then referred to the fact that the media statement does mention ‘antisemitism’ now. However, I’ve gone back on my records. I took a screenshot of what was released on 15 May. There was no reference to antisemitism in that original media release. I am perhaps disappointed that wasn’t made clear in your evidence. Mr Sivaraman, when was the media release changed? I am looking at the original screenshot of the following paragraph of 15 May, which states, ‘It will address all forms of racism, including the antisemitism, Islamophobia and anti-Arab racism currently being seen on campuses, and systemic racist practices against First Nations students and staff.’ That paragraph was not in your original release. When was that inserted?
Mr Sivaraman: Thanks for the question. Sorry, I didn’t mean to mislead. I didn’t get an opportunity to directly answer it before you went back and looked and said that it does refer to antisemitism. I would like to be completely transparent and clear about it. The original statement, I think, didn’t refer to antisemitism; then I asked for it to be amended so that it did. As for exactly when it was, I’d have to take that on notice. I can’t recall the exact date.
Senator HENDERSON: Could you provide all relevant correspondence and notes, text messages et cetera in relation to the basis for changing the statement and when that occurred, on notice, please?
Mr Sivaraman: Yes, of course.
Senator HENDERSON: Can I put to you that was an oversight—the fact that antisemitism wasn’t mentioned in the original media statement?
Mr Sivaraman: Yes. That’s why I asked for it to be inserted.
Senator HENDERSON: Thank you very much for clarifying that.